Chris Chelios named to U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame

It will be a couple more years before Chris Chelios becomes eligible to join the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. But it didn't take long for the former Blackhawks and Red Wing to be inducted into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame.

Chelios, former Hawks defenseman Gary Suter, St. Louis Blues star Keith Tkachuk, broadcaster Mike "Doc" Emrick and Philadelphia Flyers owner Ed Snider were all named to the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame on Monday.

Chelios, a three-time Stanley Cup champion and three-time Norris Trophy-winning defenseman, finally called it quits after 26 season on Aug. 31, 2010. He now works in the Red Wings' front office.

"I've played so long, people always talk about it," said Chelios, who retired after playing 1,651 games in the NHL. "The 1980 (Miracle on Ice) team paved the way for guys like myself and my class.

"I couldn't be more excited when I got the call from [the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame]. My family, friends and coaches, I've been mentioning it to them over the course of two weeks. USA Hockey has come a long way and I want congratulate all the other inductees."

The five-member class will be honored at a ceremony in Chicago in October.